In mint condition, this fine Georgian service unit, an oval platter and original mazarine (strainer plate, bear the hallmark of early Sheffield platers, T. & J. Creswick. Protecting the back of the copper body of the mazarine is a coating of tin that bears the hallmark of T.& J. Creswick. The solid-cast and applied silver border features elegant gadrooning with corners of acanthus leaves and scallop shells. English, ca. 1811. Approximately 16 inches by 12-1/2 inches.

This elegant Georgian entrée dish of fine Sheffield plate, with cast-silver mounts and overlapped edges, has a cover that can be inverted, without its detachable finial, to serve as another dish. It is in excellent condition, not replated, with the minimal wear normal to a piece of its age. England, circa 1810. Approximately 9-1/4 inches by12-1/4 inches by six inches tall.

Consisting of five elements -- deep warming base, pewter splash guard, primary dish, cover and detachable finial this impressive covered entree dish converts into two service dishes when required. The mechanically applied silver plate is original and shows the wear common to well-cared-for Sheffield plate. The applied cast sterling details and overlapping rims are in excellent condition. Sterling panels for engraving are inset on either side of the cover. Hallmarked with the hand symbol of J...

You might have seen an identical pair of these on the BBC "Antiques Roadshow" a few seasons ago. The expert was viewing a woman's lifelong collection of scissors and scissor-like implements, and these he would not let out his hands! (I wonder if she got them back?) They really are fascinating:
you open the chamber to receive the burnt wick, and when you close it, a guillotine rises up and chops off the used part, thus containing it and the acrid smoke...